Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
martial law
noun
/ˈmɑːrʃəl lɔː/
Definition
A military government involving the suspension of ordinary law.
Examples
- During the state of war, the government declared martial law to manage the crisis effectively.
- Citizens reported mixed feelings about the imposition of martial law, fearing both its necessity and the potential for abuse.
Meaning
Martial law is the imposition of direct military control over normal civilian functions of government, typically in response to a temporary emergency, such as invasion, natural disaster, or civil unrest. Under martial law, military authorities have the right to enforce laws and govern without the usual constraints of civilian governance.
Synonyms
- military rule
- military government
